Blending nine family members with the finest coffee franchise business
opportunity creates a solid foundation for generations of Mashantucket
Pequot Tribal Members. It started back in June 2008 with an idea presented by the
Tribal Council for Tribal Members to look into franchise businesses as a means of self-sufficiency.
Retail space at Foxwoods Resort Casino, owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe,
was available for a quick-serve restaurant franchise opportunity open to Tribal members.
There were over 50 members who attended numerous meetings discussing the various
franchise business opportunities available. It was at this time that Dunkin’
Donuts opened its doors and met with the group.
Nine Tribal Members stayed the course of time and took action to formulate a
Dunkin’ Donuts franchise business. These nine individuals became business partners forming
Native Way Blend, LLC in February 2009. Pulling their financial resources together,
they made a commitment to support each other, becoming one
in vision and determination with the end product being successful Dunkin’ Donuts
franchisees.
After several negotiations for retail space at Foxwoods Resort Casino,
Native Way Blend signed a Lease Agreement with Foxwoods in April, 2011 and
received their Dunkin’ Donuts Franchise Agreement in August 2011. Even in
difficult economic times, Native Way Blend was able to obtain construction
financing because of the USDA Loan Guarantee Program accepted by The
Washington Trust Company out of Providence, Rhode Island.
Native Way Blend received support and respect from the time they initiated
their desires to become a Dunkin’ Donuts Franchise and are appreciative of
the support from their Tribal Council Members, Tribal Council staff, MPGE
Legal Department, the Foxwoods Management Team, consultants from the
Moorehouse College, Dunkin’ Donuts Corporate, the USDA, Congressman
Courtney, and The Washington Trust Company.
